Member Profile: Ruth Newman

I took up triathlon in 2011 as a cure for empty nest syndrome and to fight middle-aged spread. I had previously done a lot of swimming and a fair bit of running, so tri seemed like a natural progression.

After competing in a local sprint tri as a non-member and coming second in my age group (all right, there were only two of us), I got a taste for it and decided to join ATC to meet and train with other triathletes and to work out what to do in transition. I’m really glad that I did, as I have met so many supportive and inspirational people at ATC. I am also able to use my ASA swimming teacher qualification to help members improve their swimming.

I mainly do tri to keep fit and I only enter a few races each year, but find that these give a focus and a sense of urgency to my training. It’s also a lot of fun to train with and compete alongside other club members. Chatting to team mates before a race helps with nerves and as I’m not the fastest, there are always plenty of friendly faces cheering me across the finish line! In 2016 I am planning to do at least one standard distance tri, as well as a fair few sprint tris and runs.

Strongest discipline: swim

Weakest discipline: bike, closely followed by transition (I’m a bit of a faffer).

High point – winning club trophy and other awards in 2013.

Low point: any ride involving significant climbs

I enjoy being involved with ATC through coaching, marshalling and generally helping out at events; there is a real team spirit and sense of fun in the club. There’s a place for everyone from the serious competitor to those at the more recreational end of the training spectrum. As one of the more mature members, I love the fact that young and not so young train and compete together. I would particularly encourage any women thinking of joining to do so – you will find plenty of friendly people to train with and members are very willing to share their expertise to help you gain confidence and achieve your goals.